Play That Funky Music

Lay down the boogie! Get funky with Wild Cherry's iconic 1976 smash hit, "Play That Funky Music." This instantly recognizable anthem, known for its killer guitar riff and infectious groove, became a massive number one hit worldwide and the band's defining one-hit wonder.

Released as a single, this track perfectly captured the fusion of rock energy with funk and R&B rhythms that was influencing music at the time. Wild Cherry's story of a rock band adapting to audience demands resulted in this funk rock masterpiece that dominated the charts.

Driven by Rob Parissi's unforgettable guitar hook and soulful vocals, "Play That Funky Music" remains a guaranteed party starter and dance floor filler. Its blend of funk rock attitude and undeniable R&B groove cemented its legacy as one of the most beloved one-hit wonders of 1976.

SONG MEANING: The song tells the semi-autobiographical story of a rock band facing pressure from audiences during the disco/funk era to play more danceable music ("Play that funky music, white boy"). It describes their initial reluctance and eventual decision to embrace funk music to survive and connect with their audience.